What is a credit report?

Your coaches introduce the lesson.

The complete written version of your credit history is called your credit report. Image Description
You can review your own credit report, and we’ll explain how in just a minute. But keep in mind that you give others permission to look at your credit report when you do things like fill out a credit card application or apply to rent an apartment. Image Description
That’s right. Many landlords do a credit check before deciding whether to rent to you. They look at your past credit history to decide if they can count on you to pay your rent. And some lenders study your credit report in order to decide whether or not to offer you credit. Image Description
Not only that, employers often check the credit rating of prospective employees. If you have a good credit rating it shows them that you’re responsible – and more likely to be responsible on the job, too. Image Description
You should review your credit report at least once a year to check for errors or fraud – also before making a big purchase like a house or a car. So how can you get a copy of your own credit report? Just click the Next button to find out. Image Description

• Credit report = written history • Credit bureaus maintain data • You can request • Others can request • Lenders & landlords use
Click the Next button for information on how to obtain your credit report.
What is a credit report How to obtain your credit report How to read your credit report Details of your history Scenario: Finding an error